Don't Let Your Home Get Damaged this Winter!

With the real estate market of Northern Virginia becoming more active every day, there is a constant surge of property in demand. If you're a prospective buyer, CLICK HERE for a Full Home Search, or if you're interested in placing your property on the market, obtain a Free Home Value Report RIGHT HERE. For any other questions about current market conditions or the value of your property, contact me at (703) 909-3939.

Today, we want to discuss how you can get your home in top condition during the winter months. We've compiled this short list to help you avoid costly damages this season:

• Get your head in the gutter! Make sure there aren't any leaves clogging your gutters and downspouts. 
• Button up your overcoat! Seal cracks around windows and doors with weather stripping and caulk. 
• Get on-top-of-the-roof problems! Inspect your roof for damaged shingles and leaky vents. 
• Walk the walks and drives! Take steps to repair damaged sidewalks, driveways, and steps. 
• Chill out! Drain and winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems. 
• Freshen your filter! Clean and replace dirty furnace filters. Have a professional inspect your system while you're at it. 
• Gather round the hearth! Check fireplaces for soot or buildup. Better yet, schedule a visit from a reputable chimney sweep.  
• Keep the humidifier humming! Clean the plates and pads to ensure efficient operation. 
• Head off gas problems! If you have a gas-fired room heater, have it inspected by a professional.  
• Keep the wood fire burning brightly! Wood stoves are making a comeback. To avoid a dangerous situation, be sure to inspect yours before firing it up. 
• Keep your family safe this winter! A home safety check should be an annual ritual in every household. Check smoke and CO2 detectors, fire extinguishers, and review fire escape plans.

These are just a few of the things you can do to protect your home and make sure everything goes smoothly during the winter months. Since you still have time to prepare your home before the cold weather really sets in, we want to share some energy saving ideas as well. Caulking around windows and doors is easy, and will keep cold air out and warm air in. 

Although newer homes may not require caulking, all homeowners should be checking their weather stripping and door sweeps. Install ceiling fans to help push warm air down and circulate it throughout the home. Using a hot-water-heated blanket, checking attic insulation, replacing windows, and having an energy audit done can all save you big money down the road.

If you have any questions about getting your home ready for the winter season, please give us a call. We would love to help you out!